March is Women’s History Month. This month, and every month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound honors and recognizes the significant contributions women have made to our organization and our community. 

Women’s History Month had its beginnings in 1982, after the National Women’s History Project petitioned Congress to get the President to proclaim the week of March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week”. Five years later, in 1987, Congress passed Public Law 100-9, designating March as “Women’s History Month”.  At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we believe in the power of mentorship as a key element of women’s empowerment. This year, we celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of women who have shaped history and the mentors who played a crucial role in their journeys.

Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou: A Bond Beyond Words

Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, attributes much of her success to her mentor, Maya Angelou. Their relationship began when Oprah was just a local news anchor. Angelou, a renowned poet and author, saw potential in Oprah and became a guiding force in her life. Through their deep connection, Angelou instilled in Oprah the importance of authenticity, resilience, and the power of one’s own voice.

Maya Angelou’s mentorship provided Oprah Winfrey with the strength to overcome obstacles and paved the way for her groundbreaking career in media. Today, Oprah continues Angelou’s legacy by inspiring and empowering women worldwide through her own mentorship initiatives.

Amelia Earhart and Neta “Snooky” Snook: Flying High Together

Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator who broke barriers in the male-dominated field of aviation, found her mentor in Neta “Snooky” Snook. Snook, a trailblazer herself, was the first woman to run a commercial aviation business in the United States. She recognized Earhart’s passion for flying and took her under her wing.

Through Snook’s mentorship, Earhart not only honed her piloting skills but also gained the confidence to challenge societal norms. Together, they shattered glass ceilings, with Earhart becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic. Their enduring friendship and shared commitment to breaking barriers continue to inspire generations of women in aviation.

Tammy Duckworth: Advocating for Mentorship on Capitol Hill

In the realm of politics, Senator Tammy Duckworth has been a fierce advocate for mentorship. A decorated combat veteran and the first disabled woman to be elected to the U.S. Senate, Duckworth understands the transformative power of mentorship. She introduced the “Mentoring to Succeed Act” in Congress, emphasizing the importance of mentorship programs for women and people of color in fields where they are underrepresented.

Duckworth’s commitment to mentorship reflects her own experiences overcoming challenges with the support of mentors. By championing the Mentoring to Succeed Act, she aims to create opportunities for others to receive guidance and support, ensuring a more inclusive and empowering future for women.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us recognize the indomitable spirit of women who have made history and the mentors who played pivotal roles in their journeys. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we understand the transformative impact of mentorship on young lives. By fostering mentorship relationships, we contribute to the empowerment of women and the creation of a more equitable and inclusive society.

Join us in honoring Women’s History Month by supporting mentorship programs and inspiring the next generation of women to dream big, break barriers, and make history. Together, we can create a future where every woman has the opportunity to reach her full potential with the guidance of a mentor.